There is a wealth of possibilities for hiking and trekking around Almaty. Few places in the world can offer such easy access to the mountains from the city center. There are over 50 trails in the Zaili Alatau for all interest groups and levels of skill. There are routes from easy day hikes to complicated, requiring overnight stays, technical skills and mountaineering equipment. Many hiking routs begin from Medeu high altitude skating rink and Big Almaty Lake. It’s possible to do hiking day trips all year round. In June the mountains are blooming with flowers.  The mountains remind colorful carpet  in the fall (September-October). For serious hiking trips the best time is July-August when the weather is stable and nights are not so cold at the high elevation.